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Challenge Cup final beckons for Strabane

STRABANE Athetic have reached the final of the Intermediate Challenge Cup after a convincing 3-1 victory over Trojans FC at Melvin Park on Saturday afternoon.

STRABANE ATHLETIC...3 TROJANS FC...1

A first half strike from Conal Crawford was followed up with goals from Aodhan Doherty and Sean Lynch after the interval.

Crawford's goal came on the stroke of half time and was no more than Athletic deserved for a very positive display.

Trojans' keeper Paul Tracey was much busier than his opposite number and had made a few good saves to deny Strabane.

However Crawford showed control and composure on the edge of the area before picking his spot for a great goal to give the local team an advantage.

Not long after the restart Athletic's lead was doubled by Aodhan Doherty who provided a cool finish to Tom Carlin's pass.

The insurance goal arrived via some impressive work on the left between Cal Ryan and Conor Carlin, the latter's cross tucked away at the far post by Sean Lynch.

The Athletic defence showed great composure throughout the game and restricted Trojans to very few chances.

When they did get past they found Rory Donaghy, Strabane's keeper, in fine form, handling safely and making one superb second half save.

Tony Deery did manage a consolation for the visitors with a beautifully struck free kick but by then Athletic's place in the final had been secured. Strabane now meet Newbuildings Utd in Saturday's decider.